setup-ipsec-vpn
Scripts to build your own IPsec VPN server, with IPsec/L2TP, Cisco IPsec and IKEv2
Top Related Projects
Streisand sets up a new server running your choice of WireGuard, OpenConnect, OpenSSH, OpenVPN, Shadowsocks, sslh, Stunnel, or a Tor bridge. It also generates custom instructions for all of these services. At the end of the run you are given an HTML file with instructions that can be shared with friends, family members, and fellow activists.
Set up a personal VPN in the cloud
Set up your own OpenVPN server on Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, CentOS or Arch Linux.
🔒 OpenVPN server in a Docker container complete with an EasyRSA PKI CA
The Simplest VPN installer, designed for Raspberry Pi
Quick Overview
The hwdsl2/setup-ipsec-vpn repository provides scripts to set up your own IPsec VPN server on various Linux distributions and cloud platforms. It aims to simplify the process of creating a secure, self-hosted VPN solution using strongSwan as the IPsec server.
Pros
- Easy setup process with automated scripts
- Supports multiple Linux distributions and cloud platforms
- Includes options for both IPsec/L2TP and Cisco IPsec
- Regular updates and active maintenance
Cons
- Limited customization options compared to manual setup
- May require additional configuration for advanced use cases
- Potential security risks if not properly maintained or updated
- Performance may vary depending on server hardware and network conditions
Getting Started
- Ensure you have a supported Linux distribution (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, CentOS).
- Run the following command as root to start the setup:
wget https://git.io/vpnsetup -O vpnsetup.sh && sudo sh vpnsetup.sh
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup.
- Once finished, the script will provide VPN login details and connection instructions.
For cloud-specific setup instructions, refer to the repository's documentation for platforms like Amazon EC2, Google Cloud, or DigitalOcean.
Competitor Comparisons
Streisand sets up a new server running your choice of WireGuard, OpenConnect, OpenSSH, OpenVPN, Shadowsocks, sslh, Stunnel, or a Tor bridge. It also generates custom instructions for all of these services. At the end of the run you are given an HTML file with instructions that can be shared with friends, family members, and fellow activists.
Pros of Streisand
- Supports multiple VPN protocols (OpenVPN, WireGuard, OpenConnect, etc.)
- Automates the setup of additional privacy-enhancing services (Tor, DNSCrypt, etc.)
- Provides a user-friendly landing page with connection instructions
Cons of Streisand
- More complex setup process due to its comprehensive nature
- Requires more server resources to run multiple services
- Less frequently updated compared to setup-ipsec-vpn
Code Comparison
setup-ipsec-vpn:
wget https://git.io/vpnsetup -O vpnsetup.sh && sudo sh vpnsetup.sh
Streisand:
sudo su -
curl -s https://raw.githubusercontent.com/StreisandEffect/streisand/master/streisand > streisand
chmod +x streisand
./streisand
The setup-ipsec-vpn script is more straightforward, focusing solely on IPsec VPN setup. Streisand's installation process involves more steps and offers a wider range of options during setup.
Both projects aim to simplify VPN deployment, but Streisand offers a more comprehensive solution at the cost of increased complexity. setup-ipsec-vpn is more focused and easier to set up for users specifically seeking an IPsec VPN. The choice between the two depends on the user's specific needs and technical expertise.
Set up a personal VPN in the cloud
Pros of algo
- Supports multiple VPN protocols (WireGuard, IPsec/IKEv2)
- Offers more advanced security features and customization options
- Designed for cloud deployment with support for various providers
Cons of algo
- More complex setup process, requiring more technical knowledge
- Limited to specific cloud providers and may not work on all VPS setups
- Lacks some of the simpler, user-friendly features of setup-ipsec-vpn
Code Comparison
setup-ipsec-vpn:
wget https://git.io/vpnsetup -O vpnsetup.sh
sudo sh vpnsetup.sh
algo:
git clone https://github.com/trailofbits/algo.git
cd algo
python3 -m virtualenv --python="$(command -v python3)" .env
source .env/bin/activate
python3 -m pip install -U pip virtualenv
python3 -m pip install -r requirements.txt
The code comparison shows that setup-ipsec-vpn has a simpler installation process with just two commands, while algo requires more steps and dependencies to set up. This reflects the overall difference in complexity and customization options between the two projects.
Set up your own OpenVPN server on Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, CentOS or Arch Linux.
Pros of openvpn-install
- Offers more customization options for OpenVPN configuration
- Supports a wider range of Linux distributions
- Includes features like DNS leak protection and IPv6 support
Cons of openvpn-install
- Requires more manual configuration and technical knowledge
- May have slower connection speeds compared to IPSec
- Less compatible with mobile devices out-of-the-box
Code Comparison
setup-ipsec-vpn:
wget https://git.io/vpnsetup -O vpnsetup.sh
sudo sh vpnsetup.sh
openvpn-install:
wget https://git.io/vpn -O openvpn-install.sh
chmod +x openvpn-install.sh
sudo ./openvpn-install.sh
Both scripts automate the installation process, but openvpn-install offers more interactive options during setup, allowing for greater customization. setup-ipsec-vpn provides a more streamlined installation with fewer user inputs required.
setup-ipsec-vpn focuses on IPSec/L2TP and IKEv2 protocols, which are natively supported by most operating systems. This makes it easier to set up and use across various devices without additional software.
openvpn-install, on the other hand, uses the OpenVPN protocol, which offers more advanced features and flexibility but may require additional client software on some platforms.
In terms of performance, IPSec (used by setup-ipsec-vpn) generally provides faster speeds and lower latency, while OpenVPN offers better security at the cost of slightly reduced performance.
🔒 OpenVPN server in a Docker container complete with an EasyRSA PKI CA
Pros of docker-openvpn
- Uses OpenVPN protocol, which is generally faster and more flexible than IPsec
- Containerized solution, offering better isolation and easier deployment
- Supports more advanced features like split-tunneling and custom DNS settings
Cons of docker-openvpn
- Requires Docker knowledge and setup, which may be challenging for some users
- OpenVPN clients need to be installed on devices, unlike built-in IPsec support
- May have more complex firewall configuration requirements
Code Comparison
setup-ipsec-vpn:
wget https://git.io/vpnsetup -O vpnsetup.sh
sudo sh vpnsetup.sh
docker-openvpn:
OVPN_DATA="ovpn-data"
docker volume create --name $OVPN_DATA
docker run -v $OVPN_DATA:/etc/openvpn --rm kylemanna/openvpn ovpn_genconfig -u udp://VPN.SERVERNAME.COM
docker run -v $OVPN_DATA:/etc/openvpn --rm -it kylemanna/openvpn ovpn_initpki
The setup-ipsec-vpn project offers a simpler setup process with a single script, while docker-openvpn requires multiple Docker commands for initialization. However, docker-openvpn's approach provides more flexibility and customization options for advanced users.
The Simplest VPN installer, designed for Raspberry Pi
Pros of PiVPN
- Supports multiple VPN protocols (OpenVPN, WireGuard)
- User-friendly setup process with interactive script
- Designed specifically for Raspberry Pi, optimized for low-power devices
Cons of PiVPN
- Limited to Debian-based systems (primarily Raspberry Pi OS)
- May require more manual configuration for advanced setups
- Less focus on enterprise-level security features
Code Comparison
setup-ipsec-vpn:
wget https://git.io/vpnsetup -O vpnsetup.sh
sudo sh vpnsetup.sh
PiVPN:
curl -L https://install.pivpn.io | bash
Both projects aim to simplify VPN setup, but they cater to different use cases. setup-ipsec-vpn focuses on IPsec/L2TP and Cisco IPsec VPN protocols, making it suitable for a wider range of devices and operating systems. It's designed for more general-purpose use and includes additional security features.
PiVPN, on the other hand, is tailored specifically for Raspberry Pi and similar single-board computers. It offers a more user-friendly approach with its interactive setup script and supports popular VPN protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard. While it may be more limited in terms of supported systems, it excels in ease of use for home and small office environments.
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IPsec VPN Server Auto Setup Scripts
Set up your own IPsec VPN server in just a few minutes, with IPsec/L2TP, Cisco IPsec and IKEv2.
An IPsec VPN encrypts your network traffic, so that nobody between you and the VPN server can eavesdrop on your data as it travels via the Internet. This is especially useful when using unsecured networks, e.g. at coffee shops, airports or hotel rooms.
We will use Libreswan as the IPsec server, and xl2tpd as the L2TP provider.
» :book: Book: Build Your Own VPN Server: A Step by Step Guide
Quick start
First, prepare your Linux server* with an install of Ubuntu, Debian or CentOS.
Use this one-liner to set up an IPsec VPN server:
wget https://get.vpnsetup.net -O vpn.sh && sudo sh vpn.sh
Your VPN login details will be randomly generated, and displayed when finished.
Optional: Install WireGuard and/or OpenVPN on the same server.
See the script in action (terminal recording).
Note: This recording is for demo purposes only. VPN credentials in this recording are NOT valid.
Click here if you are unable to download.
You may also use curl to download:
curl -fsSL https://get.vpnsetup.net -o vpn.sh && sudo sh vpn.sh
Alternative setup URLs:
https://github.com/hwdsl2/setup-ipsec-vpn/raw/master/vpnsetup.sh
https://gitlab.com/hwdsl2/setup-ipsec-vpn/-/raw/master/vpnsetup.sh
If you are unable to download, open vpnsetup.sh, then click the Raw button on the right. Press Ctrl/Cmd+A to select all, Ctrl/Cmd+C to copy, then paste into your favorite editor.
A pre-built Docker image is also available. For other options and client setup, read the sections below.
* A cloud server, virtual private server (VPS) or dedicated server.
Features
- Fully automated IPsec VPN server setup, no user input needed
- Supports IKEv2 with strong and fast ciphers (e.g. AES-GCM)
- Generates VPN profiles to auto-configure iOS, macOS and Android devices
- Supports Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome OS and Linux as VPN clients
- Includes helper scripts to manage VPN users and certificates
Requirements
A cloud server, virtual private server (VPS) or dedicated server, with an install of:
- Ubuntu 24.04, 22.04 or 20.04
- Debian 12 or 11
- CentOS Stream 9
- Rocky Linux or AlmaLinux
- Oracle Linux
- Amazon Linux 2
Other supported Linux distributions.
- Raspberry Pi OS (Raspbian)
- Kali Linux
- Alpine Linux
- Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)
This also includes Linux VMs in public clouds, such as DigitalOcean, Vultr, Linode, OVH and Microsoft Azure. Public cloud users can also deploy using user data.
Quick deploy to:
» I want to run my own VPN but don't have a server for that
For servers with an external firewall (e.g. EC2/GCE), open UDP ports 500 and 4500 for the VPN.
A pre-built Docker image is also available. Advanced users can install on a Raspberry Pi. [1] [2]
:warning: DO NOT run these scripts on your PC or Mac! They should only be used on a server!
Installation
First, update your server with sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get dist-upgrade (Ubuntu/Debian) or sudo yum update and reboot. This is optional, but recommended.
To install the VPN, please choose one of the following options:
Option 1: Have the script generate random VPN credentials for you (will be displayed when finished).
wget https://get.vpnsetup.net -O vpn.sh && sudo sh vpn.sh
Option 2: Edit the script and provide your own VPN credentials.
wget https://get.vpnsetup.net -O vpn.sh
nano -w vpn.sh
[Replace with your own values: YOUR_IPSEC_PSK, YOUR_USERNAME and YOUR_PASSWORD]
sudo sh vpn.sh
Note: A secure IPsec PSK should consist of at least 20 random characters.
Option 3: Define your VPN credentials as environment variables.
# All values MUST be placed inside 'single quotes'
# DO NOT use these special characters within values: \ " '
wget https://get.vpnsetup.net -O vpn.sh
sudo VPN_IPSEC_PSK='your_ipsec_pre_shared_key' \
VPN_USER='your_vpn_username' \
VPN_PASSWORD='your_vpn_password' \
sh vpn.sh
You may optionally install WireGuard and/or OpenVPN on the same server. If your server runs CentOS Stream, Rocky Linux or AlmaLinux, first install OpenVPN/WireGuard, then install the IPsec VPN.
Click here if you are unable to download.
You may also use curl to download. For example:
curl -fL https://get.vpnsetup.net -o vpn.sh
sudo sh vpn.sh
Alternative setup URLs:
https://github.com/hwdsl2/setup-ipsec-vpn/raw/master/vpnsetup.sh
https://gitlab.com/hwdsl2/setup-ipsec-vpn/-/raw/master/vpnsetup.sh
If you are unable to download, open vpnsetup.sh, then click the Raw button on the right. Press Ctrl/Cmd+A to select all, Ctrl/Cmd+C to copy, then paste into your favorite editor.
I want to install the older Libreswan version 4.
It is generally recommended to use the latest Libreswan version 5, which is the default version in this project. However, if you want to install the older Libreswan version 4:
wget https://get.vpnsetup.net -O vpn.sh
sudo VPN_SWAN_VER=4.15 sh vpn.sh
Note: If Libreswan version 5 is already installed, you may need to first Uninstall the VPN before installing Libreswan version 4. Alternatively, download the update script, edit it to specify SWAN_VER=4.15, then run the script.
Customize VPN options
Use alternative DNS servers
By default, clients are set to use Google Public DNS when the VPN is active. When installing the VPN, you may optionally specify custom DNS server(s) for all VPN modes. Example:
sudo VPN_DNS_SRV1=1.1.1.1 VPN_DNS_SRV2=1.0.0.1 sh vpn.sh
Use VPN_DNS_SRV1 to specify the primary DNS server, and VPN_DNS_SRV2 to specify the secondary DNS server (optional).
Below is a list of some popular public DNS providers for your reference.
| Provider | Primary DNS | Secondary DNS | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Public DNS | 8.8.8.8 | 8.8.4.4 | Default in this project |
| Cloudflare | 1.1.1.1 | 1.0.0.1 | See also: Cloudflare for families |
| Quad9 | 9.9.9.9 | 149.112.112.112 | Blocks malicious domains |
| OpenDNS | 208.67.222.222 | 208.67.220.220 | Blocks phishing domains, configurable. |
| CleanBrowsing | 185.228.168.9 | 185.228.169.9 | Domain filters available |
| NextDNS | Varies | Varies | Ad blocking, free tier available. Learn more. |
| Control D | Varies | Varies | Ad blocking, configurable. Learn more. |
If you need to change DNS servers after VPN setup, see Advanced usage.
Note: If IKEv2 is already set up on the server, the variables above have no effect for IKEv2 mode. In that case, to customize IKEv2 options such as DNS servers, you can first remove IKEv2, then set it up again using sudo ikev2.sh.
Customize IKEv2 options
When installing the VPN, advanced users can optionally customize IKEv2 options.
Option 1: Skip IKEv2 during VPN setup, then set up IKEv2 using custom options.
When installing the VPN, you can skip IKEv2 and only install the IPsec/L2TP and IPsec/XAuth ("Cisco IPsec") modes:
sudo VPN_SKIP_IKEV2=yes sh vpn.sh
(Optional) If you want to specify custom DNS server(s) for VPN clients, define VPN_DNS_SRV1 and optionally VPN_DNS_SRV2. See Use alternative DNS servers for details.
After that, run the IKEv2 helper script to set up IKEv2 interactively using custom options:
sudo ikev2.sh
You can customize the following options: VPN server's DNS name, name and validity period of the first client, DNS server for VPN clients and whether to password protect client config files.
Note: The VPN_SKIP_IKEV2 variable has no effect if IKEv2 is already set up on the server. In that case, to customize IKEv2 options, you can first remove IKEv2, then set it up again using sudo ikev2.sh.
Option 2: Customize IKEv2 options using environment variables.
When installing the VPN, you can optionally specify a DNS name for the IKEv2 server address. The DNS name must be a fully qualified domain name (FQDN). Example:
sudo VPN_DNS_NAME='vpn.example.com' sh vpn.sh
Similarly, you may specify a name for the first IKEv2 client. The default is vpnclient if not specified.
sudo VPN_CLIENT_NAME='your_client_name' sh vpn.sh
By default, clients are set to use Google Public DNS when the VPN is active. You may specify custom DNS server(s) for all VPN modes. Example:
sudo VPN_DNS_SRV1=1.1.1.1 VPN_DNS_SRV2=1.0.0.1 sh vpn.sh
By default, no password is required when importing IKEv2 client configuration. You can choose to protect client config files using a random password.
sudo VPN_PROTECT_CONFIG=yes sh vpn.sh
For reference: List of IKEv1 and IKEv2 parameters.
| IKEv1 parameter* | Default value | Customize (env variable)** |
|---|---|---|
| Server address (DNS name) | - | No, but you can connect using a DNS name |
| Server address (public IP) | Auto detect | VPN_PUBLIC_IP |
| IPsec pre-shared key | Auto generate | VPN_IPSEC_PSK |
| VPN username | vpnuser | VPN_USER |
| VPN password | Auto generate | VPN_PASSWORD |
| DNS servers for clients | Google Public DNS | VPN_DNS_SRV1, VPN_DNS_SRV2 |
| Skip IKEv2 setup | no | VPN_SKIP_IKEV2=yes |
* These IKEv1 parameters are for IPsec/L2TP and IPsec/XAuth ("Cisco IPsec") modes.
** Define these as environment variables when running vpn(setup).sh.
| IKEv2 parameter* | Default value | Customize (env variable)** | Customize (interactive)*** |
|---|---|---|---|
| Server address (DNS name) | - | VPN_DNS_NAME | â |
| Server address (public IP) | Auto detect | VPN_PUBLIC_IP | â |
| Name of first client | vpnclient | VPN_CLIENT_NAME | â |
| DNS servers for clients | Google Public DNS | VPN_DNS_SRV1, VPN_DNS_SRV2 | â |
| Protect client config files | no | VPN_PROTECT_CONFIG=yes | â |
| Enable/Disable MOBIKE | Enable if supported | â | â |
| Client cert validity | 10 years (120 months) | VPN_CLIENT_VALIDITY**** | â |
| CA & server cert validity | 10 years (120 months) | â | â |
| CA certificate name | IKEv2 VPN CA | â | â |
| Certificate key size | 3072 bits | â | â |
* These IKEv2 parameters are for IKEv2 mode.
** Define these as environment variables when running vpn(setup).sh, or when setting up IKEv2 in auto mode (sudo ikev2.sh --auto).
*** Can be customized during interactive IKEv2 setup (sudo ikev2.sh). Refer to option 1 above.
**** Use VPN_CLIENT_VALIDITY to specify the client cert validity period in months. Must be an integer between 1 and 120.
In addition to these parameters, advanced users can also customize VPN subnets during VPN setup.
Next steps
Read this in other languages: English, ä¸æ.
Get your computer or device to use the VPN. Please refer to:
Configure IKEv2 VPN Clients (recommended)
Configure IPsec/L2TP VPN Clients
Configure IPsec/XAuth ("Cisco IPsec") VPN Clients
Read :book: VPN book to access extra content.
Enjoy your very own VPN! :sparkles::tada::rocket::sparkles:
Important notes
Windows users: For IPsec/L2TP mode, a one-time registry change is required if the VPN server or client is behind NAT (e.g. home router).
The same VPN account can be used by your multiple devices. However, due to an IPsec/L2TP limitation, if you wish to connect multiple devices from behind the same NAT (e.g. home router), you must use IKEv2 or IPsec/XAuth mode. To view or update VPN user accounts, see Manage VPN users.
For servers with an external firewall (e.g. EC2/GCE), open UDP ports 500 and 4500 for the VPN. Aliyun users, see #433.
Clients are set to use Google Public DNS when the VPN is active. If another DNS provider is preferred, see Advanced usage.
Using kernel support could improve IPsec/L2TP performance. It is available on all supported OS. Ubuntu users should install the linux-modules-extra-$(uname -r) package and run service xl2tpd restart.
The scripts will backup existing config files before making changes, with .old-date-time suffix.
Upgrade Libreswan
Use this one-liner to update Libreswan (changelog | announce) on your VPN server.
wget https://get.vpnsetup.net/upg -O vpnup.sh && sudo sh vpnup.sh
Click here if you are unable to download.
You may also use curl to download:
curl -fsSL https://get.vpnsetup.net/upg -o vpnup.sh && sudo sh vpnup.sh
Alternative update URLs:
https://github.com/hwdsl2/setup-ipsec-vpn/raw/master/extras/vpnupgrade.sh
https://gitlab.com/hwdsl2/setup-ipsec-vpn/-/raw/master/extras/vpnupgrade.sh
If you are unable to download, open vpnupgrade.sh, then click the Raw button on the right. Press Ctrl/Cmd+A to select all, Ctrl/Cmd+C to copy, then paste into your favorite editor.
The latest supported Libreswan version is 5.0. Check installed version: ipsec --version.
Note: xl2tpd can be updated using your system's package manager, such as apt-get on Ubuntu/Debian.
Manage VPN users
See Manage VPN users.
- Manage VPN users using helper scripts
- View VPN users
- View or update the IPsec PSK
- Manually manage VPN users
Advanced usage
See Advanced usage.
- Use alternative DNS servers
- DNS name and server IP changes
- IKEv2-only VPN
- Internal VPN IPs and traffic
- Specify VPN server's public IP
- Customize VPN subnets
- Port forwarding to VPN clients
- Split tunneling
- Access VPN server's subnet
- Access VPN clients from server's subnet
- Modify IPTables rules
- Deploy Google BBR congestion control
Uninstall the VPN
To uninstall IPsec VPN, run the helper script:
Warning: This helper script will remove IPsec VPN from your server. All VPN configuration will be permanently deleted, and Libreswan and xl2tpd will be removed. This cannot be undone!
wget https://get.vpnsetup.net/unst -O unst.sh && sudo bash unst.sh
Click here if you are unable to download.
You may also use curl to download:
curl -fsSL https://get.vpnsetup.net/unst -o unst.sh && sudo bash unst.sh
Alternative script URLs:
https://github.com/hwdsl2/setup-ipsec-vpn/raw/master/extras/vpnuninstall.sh
https://gitlab.com/hwdsl2/setup-ipsec-vpn/-/raw/master/extras/vpnuninstall.sh
For more information, see Uninstall the VPN.
Feedback & Questions
- Have a suggestion for this project? Open an Enhancement request. Pull requests are also welcome.
- If you found a reproducible bug, open a bug report for the IPsec VPN or for the VPN scripts.
- Got a question? Please first search existing issues and comments in this Gist and on my blog.
- Ask VPN related questions on the Libreswan or strongSwan mailing list, or read these wikis: [1] [2] [3] [4] [5].
License
Copyright (C) 2014-2024 Lin Song 
Based on the work of Thomas Sarlandie (Copyright 2012)
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License
Attribution required: please include my name in any derivative and let me know how you have improved it!
Top Related Projects
Streisand sets up a new server running your choice of WireGuard, OpenConnect, OpenSSH, OpenVPN, Shadowsocks, sslh, Stunnel, or a Tor bridge. It also generates custom instructions for all of these services. At the end of the run you are given an HTML file with instructions that can be shared with friends, family members, and fellow activists.
Set up a personal VPN in the cloud
Set up your own OpenVPN server on Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, CentOS or Arch Linux.
🔒 OpenVPN server in a Docker container complete with an EasyRSA PKI CA
The Simplest VPN installer, designed for Raspberry Pi
Convert designs to code with AI
Introducing Visual Copilot: A new AI model to turn Figma designs to high quality code using your components.
Try Visual Copilot